Bergger BPF200

[reinierv]

When I started making 13x18 (5x7") I also bought a box of Bergger BPF200. I tried D76 and Tmax developper both think that the film is very inresponsive to over-development (there are also no specs on that) and the pictures remain pretty soft. Not at all what I want for my Pd prints. I have to use 2-4 drops of pottasium chlorate (on 24 total) to get a descent print.

So I consider using a different film, Tmax 100 is out, but I wil consider Tmax400 although that is 3x the price of Bergger. Are there any other alternatives, now that Illford is almost unavailable.

 

[geraldatwork]

Your results with the Bergger 200 is interesting. While at the NY Photo EXPO this past fall I was given 2 rolls of 35mm Bergger film I was going to try in D-76. But your results and I think another yesterday convinced me not to give it a try. However I recommend the Ilford Delta 400. I have been getting really nice results in D-76 1+1 enlarged up to 11"X14". From what I've heard (on the internet) Ilford will continue to make most of their film. On Long Island New York where I live most of the better camera stores have plenty of it. Also you can purchase it on the internet. I am not a professional and don't shoot all that much film. But I would rather spend a few extra dollars for a roll knowing my time spend taking photos was well spent.

 

[mark]

When I started making 13x18 (5x7") I also bought a box of Bergger BPF200. I tried D76 and Tmax developper both think that the film is very inresponsive to over-development (there are also no specs on that) and the pictures remain pretty soft. Not at all what I want for my Pd prints. I have to use 2-4 drops of pottasium chlorate (on 24 total) to get a descent print.

So I consider using a different film, Tmax 100 is out, but I wil consider Tmax400 although that is 3x the price of Bergger. Are there any other alternatives, now that Illford is almost unavailable.

Efke PL100 has a hell of a lot of lattitude going both directions. My negatives-developed in Pyrocat-HD are looking really good especially now that I nailed down my development times. They are within a few seconds of the ones posted by Sandy and can be found here.

Bergger has no ability to push beyond N+1 but I really like the negs I get when I am in the right situation for it. Unfortunately that does not happen out here in the SW USA very often.

 

[c6h6o3]

but I wil consider Tmax400 although that is 3x the price of Bergger.

I can push 400TMax farther than I can PL100. But it is expensive, and is not available in any sheet film formats other than 4x5 and 8x10 inches. That may make the decision for you right there. PL100 is avialable in just about any size you can think of.

 

[esearing]

Almost all the documentation I've seen on Bergger 200 generally indicates to use staining developers like PMK or P-HD. PMK was easy enough for even me. I bought the kit at b-s.com and made some tubes for developing.

JDef indicates that there is little expansion and contraction, which for a sloppy darkroom worker like me is good. It's hard to over develop this film and short development is not going to yield much negative density.

 

[reinierv]

Ok so that's it for Bergger then...and Tmax400 not available in 5x7? grrrrr as most of my 35mm is done on tmax it is easy to have one developper for all.

You have to be aware that in this tiny country here (the netherlands) it is very hard to get any alternative stuff (like developpers) and postage costs are a real pain for a 10$/10pounds order. The dutch are pretty mainstream followers.

I have an order waiting for Illford 13x18, but thats almost 2 moths ago now. I fear it won't come

 

[donbga]

However I recommend the Ilford Delta 400. I have been getting really nice results in D-76 1+1 enlarged up to 11"X14". spent.

Unfortunately 400 Delta hasn't been available in sheet sizes for years, which is a pity.

Don Bryant

 

[nze]

HI
I use to develop BPF200 in Pmk 2A+2B+100. Adding the double of A give more power to the solution and help to get good dynamic for alt process such as pure palladium.

The Traditionnal ABC ( weston) give also good result. But the opther developer I try get problem to give enough dynamic.

I forge I also use Ilford PQ , it also give good result , but I am a fanatic of pyro.